wow they call this a tuff game.Let me tell you life is much harder.I live in the most dangerous city in the the US..the murder capital of the the US. I watched someone get shot last night and I personaly beet someone with a brakeline last night...thats what i've become...thats what this city has done to me...im living on the street and just trying to survive...i havent eaten in days...but im still trying to protect my pool cue...i have no idea whats going to happen next...i dont even care....i wish i could play

Scared Money

Wow I didn't realize how long it's been since I last posted! I've been pretty busy with work,so that's what is getting in the way of my pool game.

I did get to play some last night though.Big Scott and I where at Diamond Jim's at around 8:00 pm looking for some action.The place wasn't empty but it wasn't really alive either.Monday leagues were running,but that was about it,and there really isn't any action from the league players.
I found some action with Chris the Cop.I've never played him before,but have seen him play a few times.I figured we are about even as far as skill goes,so that's the game we set.Chris never even thought about asking for weight,so I think he felt the same as I did.So even up races to 7 was the game.

The first set I jumped right out 2-0.But Chris came back and and knotted it up.Chris makes some nice shots and misses some easy shots,much like myself!Our games are very even.This set went hill/hill,that's how close our game is.I know it's only 1 set,but Chris is a stand up kinda guy,so I'm pretty positive he wouldn't be laying down at all,I'm sure he has the capability of playing better than he did,but so do I.Chris plays on the Tri State tour,and his rating is a C player.Now Ken the Kernal says I'm a B player but I don't agree with that!I feel I'm more of a C player than a B player.So this set went hill/hill,and I missed an 8 ball for the loss.

We played a second set that was just as competitive as the first,but the end result was the same,with me on the losers side.Now I didn't play bad,but I didn't play good either!At the table I can honestly say I gave about 75% and that's what I got in return.I had no intensity what so ever,now that I think of it.My game changes dramatically when I can deliver the intensity.I do things differently,my PSR changes and even how I aim changes.I'm just really noticing this now about my game.Or I'm just starting to believe something different,I cant really put my finger on it right now but something is changing the way I think about my game.I hope it's for the good of my game,and not something negative!

One thing I do know about my game is that I really shouldn't be gambling at all.I'm playing with scarey money,and that's never really a good idea.I don't feel scared when I play, but the money just means so much to me right now.I just can't afford to loose,and when you think like that you almost always loose!

Fish On

I played pretty good yesterday,I'm happy with my play.I mean it wasn't great but I learned a few things about myself,and that's what matters the most,that you learn something and walk away with it!For me to say I learned something is not that hard any time I play,it's walking away with it that's tough.Really it's coming back to the table with it that's the hardest!

I played The Fish yesterday!He called me up at the perfect moment to get me out of work.I think,let me put that in capitals for my critics! I THINK we played 4 sets race to 9.The scores I do remember are the ones that count most to me,because I'm getting closer to being competitive in these sets against The Fish.So this is how I remember it,the 1st set I won 9-4,2nd set 9-7 The Fish,3rd set 9-7 The Fish.This is where I'm a little fuzzy in my memory 4th set 9-5 The Fish.

Now I don't like to lose,but I have found that for me,the loses are where I learn the most about my game.I seem to walk away with more when I lose.Don't get me wrong about winning I walk with a lot then also,but if you ask me how I won,I would have a harder time telling you shot by shot,but on my loses I can tell you exactly how I lost!I wish it meant that I could just fix the errors,but it doesn't work like that.The good news is I remember the errors,and have an opportunity to correct them.

In one of my older posts I stated that Mike The Fish just likes to beat me up when we play.Well I stand by that statement!The Fish was not a happy fish during or after the 1st set.I could see it in his face.I don't think he was mad,but he was definitely not happy to lose 9-4.I on the other hand was ecstatic,I was playing real good,and it felt great!I was hoping that I could keep it up for the day,and for the most part I think I did.Even though I only won 1 set,I kept it tight for at least 2 more.The Fish is a very good player so he is supposed to win in long races,and in multiple set sessions,which he did.The weaker player is not supposed to be able to keep up,but I think I kept up very well.

My game is coming back slowly but surely,and I feel it's going to come back stronger than ever.I could really use some time on the table by myself just doing drills,I haven't done any drill work in at least a month,so I need to set some time aside for that.I've really just been playing tough matches against tough players,players that play balls better than my best game.I have always heard that playing the toughest matches you can find is good for your game,but it's not good for your confidence,that I can tell you for sure.My confidence has suffered a lot due to playing these matches,but a win like that puts a lot back!In the long run I think your better off playing a combination of tough matches and matches you know you have a chance of winning,not just 1 set,but complete sessions.In fact I think only playing tough matches could be a detriment to your game!Your confidence could suffer as much as mine did,I was at the point of praying just to make a single ball!That's not good.I'm sort of still at that point,whether I'm confident or praying will depend on my next session,I'll come to the table with the confidence of beating The Fish,but if I can not come out firing I'll be praying before to long.I know that's not the right mindset but that's where I'm at now.Just writing that will help me overcome that hitch in my game!

Tonight is 9 ball APA league night.I've only lost 1 match in league,so you would think it's a confidence booster for me,but it really isn't.And that's because of the format,APA 9 ball is more like straight pool(14.1),you don't have to make a single 9 ball to win your match,it goes by points.So all you really have to do is make sure you take 5 points from every rack(single ball is 1 point 9 ball is worth 2 points).That's how I've been playing in the league,I do just enough to win,no more no less.It's a little bit of a balancing act but I'm managing.So you can see why it's not such a great confidence booster.Now that I wrote that also,maybe it should be,it's not an easy thing to do.You have to be able to clock the other player almost immediately or your in trouble right away,you also must be able to run when you need to run,which is never easy to turn on and off.I have a few tricks I use to facilitate that,but it's not fail proof.For me I have to be in the right mindset to play league,and do well.Fortunately I have been.I only lost the 1 set,and if I remember correctly I didn't lose by much.Last week I had to give weight(a spot/balls/points)and that's the first time I had to,and I did just fine.

So what have I taken away from the game and this blog post aside from carpal tunnel syndrome?I know what I got from both!I hope you guys got something from all this writing,I think you should be able to walk with something.I feel you should be able to learn from some of my mistakes,and it will save you some time with your game.So maybe you'll share it with me and write a comment.
STRETCH

Not My Day

I'm hoping yesterday was just not my day.Because if it was a reflection of how I will play I might as well quit.I couldn't make 3 balls in row yesterday!

I had some action with Magic Mike,we played 3 sets and I got creamed all 3.Now I don't feel like his game is the favorite.I feel I'm supposed to win,maybe not every set,but I'm definitely not supposed to get beat up on all 3.It looks like Magic Mike has just about zero CB control.He seems to just free stroke from shot to shot without to much concern for position.He's definitely a shot maker,pockets balls pretty clean.He lets go of the rock all the time,and will fish for 9 balls.I gave away the first and second sets,and you just can't do that!It's something I need to fix!

I do not know what I was doing wrong or different,but something was off!I don't think it's in my mechanics,because even Toby Sweet gave me a compliment on that,he said he's been watching me and he likes my mechanics!That's a real nice thing to hear from a player of that caliber!It may be in the way I see the ball,some days I can pick up those spots you need to hit and it looks like a few different pin heads.But some days I'm really just guessing where it is,to the point where I even stop looking at the object ball,and just look at the CB.Not a lot of players will tell you to look at the CB last,but there are a few really great players that also look at the CB last.I go back and forth with the CB last or Object Ball last,on a lot of shots,I always have.Not that it's wrong or right,it's just the way I learned to play.CB last requires that you have great mechanics.The theory is that once you get down on the shot and lined up,you should be able to deliver the cue to the CB straight and to the OB straight,once your planted you should be in the perfect position and able to close your eyes and pocket the ball.Makes sense to me,not easy though.

Fish Attack

I didn't survive the onslaught of Mike the Fish!I think we played 3 or 4 sets,and the Fish won them all convincingly!I'm pretty sure the closest I got was 9-5.I played horrible!I could do no right,and I got every bad roll there was!Not to make excuses but that's how it went.

I recently hurt my back really bad,and have been having a hard time getting down on the ball.Normally playing pool with a bad back would not be thought of as a good move,but it seemed to help loosen up my spine.My injury is not muscular I think I slipped a disk,because when I did it,I felt something like bone on bone.Playing seemed to help,but I'm pretty sure I'm not getting down on the shot like I normally would.That could be a little of whats going on with my game for yesterday.No excuses in pool though,I just played bad.

I also played a race to 9 with Big Al and did not fair well either.I really like both of these guys games!Mike had asked me what I thought the game would be between them,and I said it would be even,well they matched up the other day.Mike said they played 6 sets and split,so there you have it.If I was asked where I thought there was any advantage it would be the break.Big Al has a slight advantage there,but not much,Mike The Fish doesn't give up much though.

I started a set,race to 7 with Jose' The Hosser,but had to leave in the middle.We left it at 4-4 and I'm breaking.I gave away 2 or 3 games in this set,and I cant afford to give away any more.

League Night

So last night was league night,and it was not a good night for me to play.I wrecked my back the other morning putting on my pants.Yeah,yeah laugh out loud.But really I was in so much pain,I didn't think I would be able to play.Big Scott and I got to the pool hall at 12:00pm,and when I first went to get over my shot it hurt so bad I didn't think I could do it again.But after a few games it became easier and easier.Then I found the magic cure,beer yup the elixir from the Gods!I took 2 Aleave's and slammed a Bud Ice tallboy,and by the time I got back to Diamond Jim's I was good to go!I don't like to take meds that are just masking agents it makes it to easy to put yourself in a vulnerable position,and create more damage.But I really think the beer was the one that did the trick,it relaxed me,and I think that's what my back needed.

I was the first to go last night,and I shouldn't have been.Nira put me up against a 4 that she should have played,and I should have played the second match against Lyle who recently dropped his handicap to a 4.Well it didn't work out the way we would have liked.Nira lost her match,after I had won my match.My match was pretty tough but Lyle was a little tougher.We did the best we could in our matches,Nira almost got the win!Next up was Big Scott,I think he played a 7.Big Scott did not play good at all,and lost his match.Next up was Matt also a newly ranked 7,he got off to a rough start but found a little stroke and came from behind to nail a win!I hope we can keep Matt a 7,because we really don't need an 8.I would love to see our team have lower handicaps with higher capability's.

Not Expected

I should have a lot to write about,since I have not posted any of whats gone on in the last 5-6 days.A lot has happened but I'm not sure I remember it all.I'll give it my best shot for you guys though.

This did not happen in order,it's just how I remember it.

I've played a ton in the last week,I was trying to get it in before starting a construction job that is going to consume all of my time for the next few weeks.The only reason I can even write this is,I hurt my back today,in the early morning I yanked something out of line,like a disc,it hurts really bad.

I'm going to start with my play as that's what I remember best.
I have had a significant improvement happen to my game!Not only have I noticed but other players have seen it too.But I'm not the only one in the pool hall to improve,Big Scott is right there with me,the other day we played for a few sets,and we pretty much went rack for rack of run outs.I hit him with a 2 pack and he hit right back with almost a 2 pack,that ALMOST was probably the set decider.I'm happy Big Scott and I are showing signs of improvement we have both put in a lot of work.
My game jumped the other day like a least a ball!That's a rather large jump,I didn't expect it to last for more than a day,but it did.I had what I hope was just a minor set back vs Chino yesterday.He beat me every set we played and the closest I got was I think 7-9.I'm calling it a minor set back because,Toby Sweet asked me a few questions that I answered,and as I answered,I was immediately enlightened to what had changed from that day to this day.It's a very simple fix,and I expect to be right back there again.Toby also gave me a flattering statement about my game,when he said "I have great mechanics".I was just as surprised as I was happy to hear that.My game is taking it's time,but it's coming!Good things come to those who wait.
I still have a few people on my list to beat.I played with Giant Jerry the other day,but we had to stop short in the second set and call it a game.I don't think he was playing all that good.I got him the first,and we stopped the 2nd set as a race to 5,in which he got me.

Toby Sweet almost had some good action,He was supposed to play Mike Wong.But they had some pre match drama,and could not agree on a game!This kid Wong was a real tool,you could tell he always got his way as a kid,because of the way he talked to Toby.He said he wanted to have to grind for the wins,and wanted to play sets.Toby wanted the REAL grind,he wanted to play by the game,and guarantee 8 hours of play per day!Now that's what I call a grind!Wong wanted rack your own ball,Toby wasn't falling for that trick either.Toby even offered to pay for a hotel for him.It's probably for the best that they didn't play,word is Wong will drive you nuts with how slow he plays,and I heard that from more than one player!So it was no action for Toby.
Toby did get a good game the other day from a truly unsuspecting,supposedly world champion in your own mind kinda guy.This guy come into Diamond Jim's,and just starts asking people for a game,so Jersey Ken points him in Toby's direction.This guy was another tool,and he had a travel pose' with him.So they agree to a game of Chicago.Now everybody in the room knows who Toby is except this guy.It was like watching a hustling movie.Toby beat this guy like 42 ways out of 50!

Talisman Hard Tip Review

I'm gonna try and give you a fair evaluation of the Talisman Water Buffalo Hard.

This is a hard hitting tip,and I like hard tips for a few reasons;
1. They last longer
2. They hold shape better
3. They sound better
4. They feel better
The only draw backs for a hard tip that I can think of is;
1. They don't hold chalk
2. They miscue easier
3. They don't grab the cue ball as well as say a medium tip
4. Some people may feel they get less feed back from the cue

That's all I can think of right now but if anyone has any other advantages or disadvantages please respond!

This tip has lasted about 6 weeks now which is a long time for me ,and still has about a week or 2 left in it.I'm very abusive with the chalk,and really grind them down to nothing just by chalking!

The cue is a Pete Omen
The shaft is a Predator 314 small cat

This is a great tip!By far the best laminated tip I've ever used!

This tip plays slightly harder than the hardest Triangle,but grabs the CB nicely.It holds a ton of chalk,gives great feedback,sounds good and solid.It doesn't grab as well as the Talisman WB medium,but it grabs well.The medium grabs maybe a little to much for my stroke.Miscues with this tip have only occurred a few times and only recently,the tip has maybe 1 good nickle left in it.When I installed this tip I had it shaped to a dime radius,and it flattened to a nickle,and never moved again!

I can highly recommend this tip for any player that likes a hard hitting tip!In fact this tip is the only tip that I can say plays better than the best Triangle!That's a bold statement,I've been playing hard Triangles for my whole career. But this Talisman Water Buffalo Hard wins that match up with a few things;
1. Holds shape better
2. Miscues less often
3. More consistent feel through out it's life span
4. Grabs the CB better

This tip is my new tip of choice!I'll be installing a new one shortly,and have all the confidence in the world that a new one will play the same.Talisman makes some bold statements on their web site,which I was skeptical of,but the tips do what the web site says!I'm totally impressed with this tip. It's the first tip for me that has now replaced hard Triangles as my tip of choice!

I Got Him Too

Yesterday was a tough day of play for me.Mikey Fish called me up the night before and set a match up,his usual Straight Pool game fell thru,so I guess I was the first person on his hit list.If that's the case then I'm flattered,I don't think it would be from my quality of play,I'm more inclined to believe he just likes to beat me up!Well the beatings continued yesterday,we played all day,and into the night for a few hours.

So I think this is how it went.We played 7 or 8 sets race to 9.Fish beat me up for I think the first 5 sets!I know it sounds bad ,but The Fish plays better than me!I'm not supposed to win,but I got him!Yes I did,I got him for 2 sets,if I remember correctly.That's a big thing for me,there are a few guys in here that I really need to get,for my confidence,and The Fish is one of them!

I know I can play with these guys,and be a favorite.My game is just coming back,I wish I was a natural at this game,but I always had to work hard for my game.I'm putting in the mileage with my game,and it's just starting to show!

I Got One of Them

Wow today was a quick day.I went to Diamond Jim's and played Big Al.It went so fast I really did not feel like I played!We only got three sets in,and I'm happy to report one of them went my way in a big way! I finally got him in the first set,9-3.The second set went hill/hill and I missed an 8 ball and gave the set away.The third set went his way also.I'm starting to have and play with confidence.This is great news for me,I've been playing with no confidence for weeks now,and I hope it's finally over.I really don't see why it wouldn't be over.

17 Hours of Action

I could probably write about 3 pages,with all that took place at Diamond Jim's yesterday!There was ACTION all day and all night,I know because I got there at 12:00 pm and left at 5:00am,that's a long day of pool and I never left the table!

I love Saturday's at Diamond Jim's the place is really alive,every table is lit,and characters come and go through out the day and night.

I'm not going to be capable of giving you the specifics of every match,I really don't remember it all,I don't even remember all of my own action.

We started off the day with three featured matches;
Table 1 Toby Sweet vs Chino
Table 2 Jose' "The Hoser" vs Ronnie "The Lock"
Table 3 Big Al vs "Stretch"

Out of respect and for the sake of privacy,all I'll ever say about players gambling is that they are in action.

Toby Sweet vs Chino; Now this was a special match!To have someone of Toby's caliber playing next too you is a treat!Arguably the best money player to play the game,I think Chino is a little out gunned.I really did not get a chance to sweat that match,as I was involved in my own war.I can say that I did see Toby breaking a lot.I also noticed that Toby is rarely shooting anything over 2 feet,and he's on the correct side of the ball every time! I wish I could have really watched this match,you could learn a lot.I am a little happy with myself for not watching,because that meant I kept my head on my game.

The Hoser vs The Lock; Now this is Ronnie The Lock's first appearance in my blog so lets talk a little about his game.I wish I could really tell you how The Lock plays but I don't have a ton of time watching him.One of the things I do know about his game is,it's dam good!And everyone tells me he has the simplest game in the room.But when your never out of line it always looks simple,and that's my take on his game!
Needless to say I believe Hoser was just out gunned also.I think the Hoser did pretty good against The Lock,I think they were playing even up,and I know at least one set went hill/hill.They played for four sets with the Lock winning all four!But to The Hoser's credit,if you can go hill/hill with The lock,for even just one set,you should be pretty happy!

Big Al vs Stretch; You would think I would know everything about this match up,since I played in it,but I don't!What I can tell you is,it was very competitive! I managed to go 7-9 2-9 7-9 and we played at least 2 more sets,but I don't remember the scores.I played pretty well and I'm happy with my results.Big Al plays at about an A class,so I was out gunned also.But I gave him a good shot,and I think he knew I was there.

The night session;
There was only one match for the night but it was long and tough.

Stretch vs Ian; Now this was a real test for me to see if I could dig deep and claw my way back into a stroke.I'd been at the table for around 9 hours when Ian called me out for the second time of the day.I will tell you this about the action,it's more than that for me!This was about food,and not just any food!This was about sushi!Do I have your attention now?Well I lost the first 2 sets,and was really not seeing the edge of the ball,it was just a giant blurr too me.We doubled the double and I wore him out,and edged him for the set!Now Ian and I are even.

I'm on my way back today.

Where is King Konng?

I want to start out today with a little rant.
You see at Diamond Jim's we have our fair share of good players.But for the past couple of weeks we have a really great player in our midst,his name is Toby Sweet.Now I'm not the only one to call him a great player,and I'm not just using Diamond Jim's players as a yard stick.Toby is a true world class player!More than a few people across the globe will tell you,Toby is the best money player EVER!I started a thread on AZ Billiards and it's been front page news for a couple of weeks now!Everybody wants to know what Toby is doing,is he going to play,and just shouting out to him.If you read through that thread you'll find stories and accolades from across the globe.Yes Toby is that good!I was talking with Toby yesterday,and he told me that most of the time he never really showed his A game to anyone!I've never seen his A game,I wish I could!

But here is my thing though.Everyone of the regulars at Diamond Jim's is expecting Joey King Kong to play Toby Sweet!King Kong is the best player at Diamond Jim's and everyone is wondering where the hell he is! I have not seen him since Toby showed up,and he used to be there every day.Now I don't know if he's ducking him or not,and if he is ducking him,I understand fully! If I played their speed,I would play the match regardless of the money.But that's because I want the tough matches! I'm not sure of this but I think Joey may very well be hiding,he may not want such a tough match.Even though Toby doesn't play that much now,I think he's the favorite,in fact I could not see myself betting against him! I would love to see them play,I've never seen Joey's A game,but I'm pretty positive he would need it against Toby.

Now on to yesterdays action;I first hooked up with Mike the Fish.That's a tough match for me,I'm definitely not the favorite!We play even although he should be giving me some sort of weight to make it more competitive.We played 3 sets race too 9.The first set was tight,I jumped to an early lead 4-1 only managed to win 3 more games after Fish took the lead,I lost 7-9.The second set I got crushed 9-2.And the third set I fought my way back into the set,but lost again 7-9.I really don't know what happened in the second set,but it was a landslide!The first and third sets I played good and also smart,I didn't really didn't give anything away,I made him work for it.

Over the next few hours I had some action with two other players,but no real excitement,and I really didn't play good,I think I was tired,and I know I was hungry.

I feel pretty good about my game after coming so close too winning a set from Mike The Fish,now I KNOW I can win against him!This is the first time I gained some confidence since I started playing!That was back in late April,that's a long time too play with zero confidence!You have got to have confidence to play this game well,without it you'll never go anywhere!Mike the Fish told me something after we finished yesterday,I think it went like this,"your game has some genius to it,followed by some brain farts".That statement can go either way,but I know Fish meant for it to be a positive statement,so there is another confidence booster!

I'll be at the pool hall bright and early tomorrow!I'm hoping to match up with Big Al for the day.

Competition

My match for yesterday was Big Scott,a very competitive match,because we play the same speed! It's a match either one of us can win.There's not much that separates our games,I think it only comes down too who pockets one more ball per rack,not meaning that either of us could give the other the 8 ball,because we can't if I gave Big Scott the 8 ball he would probably win like 9-2 consistently,and the same goes the other way!The difference in our games is like 1 mistake per rack! It's probably a good thing for my game to play Big Scott,because I feel I can win.If either one of us catches a stroke,it could be a landslide defeat!We used to gamble a lot but now were too good of friends to really get in action with each other,therefore the bragging rights of a win or loss is usually good enough motivation.Our games should improve at about the same pace,I may play a little more than him,but he's more of a natural player then me,I always had to work at this game too catch a stroke!But I think I got Big Scott back into playing more seriously,we play on the same 9 ball league team,he's rated a 6 and I'm rated a 5 but I just started playing again,so I'll probably be a 6 sometime soon,not that I want to be a 6.

I asked Big Scott the other day,if he realized that he and I are the weakest 2 players of all the regulars at Diamond Jim's and he said he knew that,I was surprised at his answer.I plan on changing that!And I'm pretty sure he does too.It may take some time to accomplish,but I am determined to become an A class player!That's why I'm always looking to play the tough matches that I'm NOT supposed to win!I've been playing all of those guys,Chino,Mike the Fish,Jersey Ken,Ken the Kernal,Big Al,Ritchie,Carl Sloezen,Roger Doger,GIANT Jerry.These guys skill level range from solid B too Pro player.Carl being the lone Pro!
Not many have seen Carl's best game,but I got lucky,we started out playing 9 ball,which he plays incredibly well,and then a little 14.1.I played great for my game got a couple of racks off him playing 9 ball.Straight pool I missed 1 safety by just a hair,and Carl ran 253 balls on me!Yup 250+ that's what I said!Carl Sloezen is the best player hands down,that I have had the HONOR of playing.....I mean racking for!
Some people would be upset getting beat like that,not me I walked away from that match with a ton of knowledge and a new friend.Carl put on a WORLD class exhibition against ME,and I like to think it was because he was afraid to let me too the table.That's how you deal with a loss like that! I took a world class beating and I'm honored to say that,not many people can say that! It did not effect my confidence one bit,in fact it was a confidence booster!

I'm going to continue looking for those tough matches,because I think it's the right thing too do.I KNOW I'm lucky to have these kind of matches available to me every day.I have Diamond Jim's to thank for that!

There is a match that I'm looking to play,but I'm not sure I can get it.But I'm going to try my hardest to get it.It's against another World class 9 ball player!Goes by the name of Toby.Yup that Toby,Toby Sweet.He is here at Diamond Jim's.I watched him play some the day before yesterday against Benny the Jet.All I can say is it's just beautiful too watch Toby move the rock around the table.I need a monster spot from him to make it competitive!I may have to donate first to get the correct spot,but I don't mind that.I really just want the experience.How often do you get a chance to play someone of that caliber!In fact he can give me the world and I'm still just donating but I don't care,I want the match!I need the match!I'm a winner no matter what happens,I CANT LOSE it's a WIN WIN situation.

I'm not going to play today.I need a little break.

Damit Chino

I'm getting closer to beating Chino for a set,but still making some big mistakes.The mistakes I'm making are unforgivable.I think I missed with ball in hand 3 times in 4 sets!I also missed a few 9 balls and 8 balls!You just can't make mistakes like that against Chino!If you do,he's out.These are mistakes that can't be tolerated,you can't have them become part of your game,and I feel that's what is happening too me!I'm consistently making a lot of easy mistakes.If I could eliminate those mistakes my game would jump at least a ball.I think my game is right on the cusp of moving from a C+ too a B-. I felt good at the table yesterday,comfortable,like I was meant to be there.I have been trying to put more pressure on myself and I think that may be wrong,maybe I should just try to have fun,because it really has not been fun for me to play in the last few weeks.This is supposed to be fun,not a job and that's what it has become for me,I kinda look at my game like I have to become an A class player,not everyone can be an A player,even if you put in the work,there are a few inherent things you must have!Maybe I just don't have them.

The more I play Chino the more I like his game!He's rarely out of line,and if he is his recovery shots are usually very effective.He pockets balls clean from everywhere,banks great,kicks great,has a solid safe game,and a ton of knowledge!Ken "The Kernal" Kerner thinks his game his game is at least a solid B+,but I definitely do not agree with The Kernal on that!Chino is a solid A,maybe an A+!He runs racks,he can put you in your chair for a few racks!Chino has 2 weaknesses that I know of;
#1 is his break,it's not bad,it's good,but with his CB control I feel it should be better than it is.I think if Chino would buy a quality break cue,and spend some time with it,his game would be a ball better!
#2 Chino does not jump balls.I feel in today's game of 9&10 ball to be successful in tournament play you have to stay at the table,and even though he kicks like a mule,he still gives up control of the table when presented with a rather easy jump shot!I push him too jump shots at every chance I get,because I know he can't jump,and will be forced too kick at the ball.His kicks a good but there not great,he's good enough to pick a side of the ball too hit,but does let go of the rock.So I see it as a weakness,that once again a quality break/jump cue would elevate his game!

I'm gonna get too the table again today,and just try to have fun,no added pressure,and see what kind of results I garner.I'm still going to look for a tough match,like Mike The Fish,or Jersey Ken!Only time will tell if I hae what it takes to be an A player!



Do any of you know who this player is?

Satisfied Day

I got too the pool hall yesterday and the place was packed with players,even the bar had a few!I got lucky and found one player playing by himself,Wild Bill is his name,and he plays pretty good.Were pretty close to even,I think his CB is slightly better than mine,but not by much.If I do have an edge it's the break,his break is pretty good,but he comes up dry a lot.My break has been pretty good now that I have the proper tip installed again.I had a Talisman B/Jump tip which is a very hard leather,but does not perform as well as Phenolic plastic or G10 fiberglass.

My break/jump cue is a sought after X Breaker,they are hard to find nobody wants to let them go,and the guy who made them died!The X Breaker comes with a G10 tip standard and was the first to use that material as a tip.The X Breaker got a ton of exposure when Charlie "Hillbilly" Bryant was clocked with a radar gun on his break shot at 37mph! That's a monster break shot,I wish I could get my break up there.I feel I have a pretty big break,I get some compliments or statements to that effect on occasion.I spend a fair amount of time working on my break,and it has shown!

OK so Wild Bill and I hook up,we only got to play two sets race too 9.It was pretty UN-eventfull,not much to talk about we were not gambling just sparing.I won the first set and he won the second.I came away from the table pretty satisfied with my game,at least happy enough that I was looking to see if I could steel a set or 2 from Big Al.I would have to wait for that game though,as Big Al was already playing someone.

This is going to be short,Big Al destroyed me 7-1.

So that was that.Another great day at Diamond Jim's!

Toby One Pocket Player?

So Toby has been hanging out at Diamond Jim's in Nanuet N.Y. I have been talking too him a lot,about whatever.He really has no desire to play pool,he said he just can't get into it anymore.When he does play he said he just goes through the paces but his head really isn't there.

He recently started playing a little one pocket,a game he never played before,he said it's like figuring out a puzzle so it gives him a little interest in hitting balls.

A few of the regular players think he may play some against the best player Diamond Jim's has to offer,Joey "King" Kong.I have not seen Joey's A game,but I hear it's strong as hell.But how do you bet against Toby for the cash?I mean yeah he doesn't play anymore,where Joey "King" Kong is in action every day,but and it's a big but,Toby was one if not the most feared money player in the game for a long time.Personally I hope they play,I would love to see Joey's A game,and I think he would need it against Toby's not A game.Maybe I'm just a little skewed,Toby is a local hero and a real live legend around here,actually not just here but in the pool & billiards world!We'll have to wait and see what transpires and I'll report it here for you guys to read.

Yesterday was league night,and it was a good night for our team!Everyone played good,we won all our matches,that's great!Our team was in 2nd place before last night,now I think if 1st place had a bad night we may take over first place!

Hill/Hill

I got too the pool hall at about 1:00pm yesterday,and I was not really excited to be there.I thought I would be,but when I arrived I had no game,and I wasn't really interested in drilling by myself.I started out by piling rocks,where you just take 15 balls throw them on the table and just shoot in any order,concentrating on your PSR(pre shot routine),and stroke.I figured I would do that for about an hour,and then move onto a 9 ball specific drill called "The Gauntlet",now this is a tough drill designed to take you from a B player too an A player!I'll explain it in detail when I institute it in my practice sessions in the future.I just couldn't get into it yesterday,I really needed to play for something,I needed to find some sort of motivation.

I got just what I needed when Mike the Fish walked through the door at about 3:00pm.Now Mike the Fish is a perfect game for me,because he can play his best for nothing,and that's what I need.I'm a true believer that you should be able too play your best game when ever you want too,not just when you need too!You have to be able too turn it on when you want too!There's a big difference in when you want and when you need,and I believe that's the difference between an A and an Open player.So we hooked up and played a couple of sets.I jumped to 4-1 lead early and was feeling pretty good.Mike the Fish is a solid B+ player,so anytime I can get close to winning a set I should be happy.We went hill/hill the first set and I gave it away,but I was still satisfied with my play.The second set I got destroyed!I had lost all motivation and just wanted to get out of there.You can't play like that in fact I think it's just a bad move for your game.I feel your just re-enforcing bad habits with your thought process.So even though I got killed the 2nd set I still feel pretty good with myself for going hill/hill against Mike the Fish,who out of the day pass crowd I feel is the best player there.

Tonight is league night and we will see what that brings me.

Tobby Sweet

Tobby Sweet is in the house!For those of you that have never heard of Tobby,he is a real live legend!Many people not just some,will tell you he was the best money player ever!He used to own a room called Hollies here in N.Y. and man could he play!I was fortunate enough to be around too witness his play in his prime,although I was not even good enough to realize how good he was.But I can appreciate it today.It,s kinda funny he's here because I was just watching him play Wade Crane on an Accu-Stats video,that Mike the Fish lent me.But that's how pool players are you think or talk about them and they just appear from the smoke!Hopefully he came to play some,I would really like to see him in some action.Mike the Fish wants to see him play Joey King Kong,he thinks Joey is the favorite,but i don't see it that way.How can you bet against Tobby?I have not seen Joey in action so I cant really give you any information on how well he plays.But if they do play I know where my money goes!

As for me I still have a perfect record of not winning a single set!I don't even remember how many sets I played yesterday,but I know I didn't win a single one of them!My game has suffered some heavy set backs,and I'm pretty sure I know why!

I just have too much on my mind!With all this stuff running through my mind I don't see any way I'll be able to play my best!

I'm going to try to make it too the table today,Sunday is a good day at Diamond Jim's.I wish playing pool was like surfing for me,when I go surfing it washes away everything except what I'm doing at that moment.It's a therapy thing called "staying in the moment".As I'm writing this I realize that is maybe the key.If I could make pool wash away all my problems like surfing does I'd have the clear mind I need.You have to have a clear mind to play this game well! I need to find that place in my head where nothing matters except the shot!As usual that's easier said than done.When you go surfing as soon as you get wet nothing else in the world matters,the ocean just puts you in your place.How can I make pool do that?

Is it a Job

I ended up at Diamond Jim's yesterday,and soon found out that I didn't really want to be there!I have so much stuff on my mind it's crazy.You can't play pool with a full head of shit!At least I can't,I try but it just never works for me.You need a clear mind to play this game too your best ability!

I hooked up with this guy I call Talking Harry.I call him that because he never shuts up!I mean NEVER!It's a great shark,very effective,and how do you get him too stop.He doesn't do it too shark you on purpose,it's just who he is.Don't get me wrong he's a nice guy,and means well but come on you would think he has to stop talking sometime.I played him once before,and he did the same thing too me.It pulled me right out of stroke.And I swore I would never play him again.I know,you can't let these thing effect your game,but that's easier said then done.

So we hooked up too play 9 ball,and he wants a spot ball(a spot ball means he has more than 1 winning ball).He wants the 7/8(so he has 3 winning balls7-8-9)that's a really big spot,puts a lot of pressure on you.Basically if you don't run out you lose plain and simple!Now to be honest,I shouldn't be giving anyone a spot,I'm not playing good enough pool let alone the mind game just isn't there.So we come too an agreement,I'll be giving him the 8 ball.Maybe I'm wrong but I was always under the impression that if you can win with the 8 ball,you can win playing even!That doesn't mean you can give someone the 8 though.The 8 doesn't sound like a big spot too get,but too give it,is kinda big.It's another ball to worry about.And I really don't need anything more to worry about!We played 2 sets and as usual I lost both of them!

I don't have a winning record at Diamond Jim's that's for sure!I think the last time I won even a single set was when I beat Big Scott in a race too 9.Since then it has all been down hill!Granted I'm playing tough matches against guys I'm not supposed to beat,and I want to be playing these type of matches,but it wears on you.You begin to think you don't know how to win.That's the stage I'm at.I think playing the tough matches is good,but there needs to be a balance,you need to play some matches that you have confidence in your ability to win.You can't let losing be the only thing your learning.

I'm most likely going to end up at the pool hall today.I don't know if that's a good thing for me,but I think it will be better than me staying home.

The pool hall will be full of games today,Jersey Ken,Mike the Fish,Chino,Lyle,Talking Harry,Big Scott,etc.So if I want a tough match,I can find it.I'm not sure of what I want or need.But I am going to play today.I know a tough match would be really nice to win,but if I don't win it's another shot too my confidence.I don't know how many more shots I can take,my confidence is at a very low level.As soon as I walked into Diamond Jim's I knew I didn't want to be there.I think when I go today,I'm going to try and have an attitude of just having fun.The game has not been fun for me in weeks,it's been more like a job.

Talisman Hard will Have To Wait

Due too a glue failure my Talisman Hard tip review will have to wait.I noticed a small gap between the tip and ferrule last night while playing,and then I ripped it off.Unfortunately that was the only one I had,I had ordered 3 tips ,but only one hard tip.So I'll be placing an order soon,and then I'll get too it!

I got too the pool hall yesterday and played pretty well!I didn't win a single set,but I was happy with my game.The pool hall was pretty slow as far as players went,for most of the day it was just the four of us,Chino,Big Bill,Mike the Fish and myself.So Chino and Big Bill hooked up,and I played with Mike the Fish.Tough match is all I can say,I like it though.I'm very lucky to have these players around and willing to spar for next too nothing or nothing at all!You just wont get that in most rooms.Most of your better players are always going to make you pay to see their better game!

So it was me and The Fish.One of the reasons I was happy with my play was that in each set we played I was able to jump to an early lead.In a longer race the better player will usually win,and that was the case.Mike the Fish got me every time!But I played well,didn't give to much away,and made him work for it!That to me is an improvement over my last performance against him.So I feel I should be satisfied,and I think I am.

This post is going to span 2 days at Diamond Jim's,because I just don't have the creativity to write,I don't know why I just cant find it the past few days.

I'll give you a quick summary of yesterday.I was in action all day against Jersey Ken,I didn't win a single set!I lost a few hill/hill.

Next up was Jose' we played one set,I lost plain and simple.

I've been taking my beatings with out a doubt!But I have been playing tough matches for me!It's a little frustrating,but in the long run,I'm sure it will show in my game.

STRETCH

Memorial Weekend

I would like to start off by congratulating The New Jersey Devils on the Eastern Conference Championship which now pits them against the Western Conference Champions,the Las Angles Kings for The Stanley Cup Championship!

I haven't been at a table in the last 2 days!And I may not get too a table for a few more!You see I got the second best game killer you can have.A job!The first best game killer is a relationship outside of pool players,at least that has been my experience.Anyway back too reality,I'm hoping that the time off will do me some good,I know the money will be a nice change!I can't wait too put some bucks in my pocket,I'm sick of being broke!

I don't really want the time off,I'd rather not have these breaks in my game,I have plenty of enthusiasm and feel that's the only time you should take a break,when you don't want to be there you shouldn't and when you want too be there you should!

Have a great Memorial Day weekend.

STRETCH

Talisman Tip Review

I promised you guys my opinion on Talisman tips and here it comes.I want to start by saying,I'm no expert in tips,in fact through out my career I think I've only tried about a half dozen different tips on my OMEN cue. http://www.omencues.com/
The shaft I play with is a Predator 314 small cat.
The tips that I have tried are;Moori medium & hard,Molavia hard,Le Pro hard,Triangle hard,and finally Talisman Water Buffalo medium & hard.Now I like hard tips for a couple of reasons;
1:they last longer
2:the sound
3:the feel
4:they don't mushroom as easy
I've played most of my career with hard Triangle's as my favorite,so that is my benchmark tip.
I also must confess to you that I'm a tip abuser!I grind my chalk in,during my PSR(pre shot routine)and as a result a hard Triangle will only last about 4 weeks of play,this is with only shaping the tip on initial install to the radius of a dime,and letting it flatten too a nickle and then maintaining that radius.Which with a Hard Triangle is about 3 more times to be shaped with a tip tool.Now during that 4 weeks of play I'm at the table for 6 hours,5 days a week.So it's a fair amount of play.

First up is the Talisman WB Medium.This is the first laminated tip I've tried in years,I never had much luck with them in the past.For me they were too soft and I had a few de-laminate,let alone the cost of just one!
This was a nice tip for a medium.It played slightly softer than a hard Triangle when new,and was very consistent through out it's life till the very end of it.When I first put this tip on I was amazed at how well it grabbed the cue ball,I actually had to change the way I addressed the CB with spin,moving back closer too center ball for all shots.The amount and speed of draw shots was most impressive,and very nice to watch.I had too adjust my stroke too this tip,but that's to be expected when you change hardness in a tip.This tip also produced a nice sound when you stroked the ball.When I installed it I shaped it too a dime,and after break in,it was a nickle radius,and never changed.I never had too use a tip tool on this tip beyond a gentle taping too perforate it.This tip also holds chalk very well,the only time I miscued with this tip is when I jumped right out of the shot!It's pretty rare for me to miscue but it did happen a couple of times with this tip,but it definitely was me jumping up or dropping my elbow.The only complaint I have with this tip was it's life span,I wish it would have lasted more than 4 weeks for me.If it would have lasted say 5 weeks I'd be putting another Talisman WB medium on my OMEN!

Talisman WB Hard:
I've only had this tip on about a week,and love it so far.I'm going to hold off on this review till I grind it down a little further or it's on for 3 weeks or more.I feel that's the only way too give you a fair review of this tip.I can tell you, that it grabs the CB very nice,sound great,and feels great!But I feel it needs more time for initial break in than the medium.

Talisman Break/Jump Tip:
So,a B/J tip is an extremely hard material such as leather or plastic.
I chose to use a Talisman leather B/J tip over G10 fiberglass,because of the new tournament rules.I put this tip on my Xbreaker that had a G10 tip originally.

I've had to make some rather large adjustments to my break to get it to work for me,and I still don't have the results I was hoping for.So this probably wont be a favorable review.

The tip is hard but there is a loss of speed and power on the break shot.I've had to increase my tip speed dramatically which decreased my accuracy.This makes it very hard to control the cue ball,and squat the rock in the middle.When I do get the accuracy,speed and power the tip performs well.
As far as a jump shot goes I'm impressed with the feel and control you get when you can get it off the table.But getting the CB off the table is no easy task with this tip.It also requires a totally different stroke than the G10 tip that comes on an X-Breaker.It seems to me that this tip requires so much speed rather than power that you must spend a lot of time practicing your break and jump shots if your changing from a Phenolic or G10 tip.

Too be fair too Talisman I made a mistake when installing this tip and had a pad installed.I'm not positive that a pad would decrease the performance of the tip dramatically,but I do know it has a negative effect.The pad should not be there!So I will be getting another B/J tip from them in the future,and trying it with out a pad.I'll post that review also.

As far as mushrooming goes,I've had ZERO mushrooming with all three of these tips.Mushrooming is my biggest problem with tips and is one of the reasons I grind my tips too nothing.I always shape my tips too a dime the first time and let them flatten naturally too a nickle.So far none of these tips have ever moved from there!

The cost of Talisman tips? I got 4 tips for $37 shipped!
2 medium
1 hard
and a free B/J tip & a monogrammed hand towel!That's a good deal.I ordered directly from the Talisman website.
STRETCH

Still Waiting

Well I'm still waiting!I don't know how long I have to wait,but I am going to wait it out!Patience is key in this game,it seems like your always waiting for something or someone.Like today,I had to wait for a game to show up,not the usual Sunday at Diamond Jim's,I even arrived a little late.I didn't have to wait long though,Chino came through the door at about 1:00 pm.Here was the tough game I was looking for.Chino always wants to play, he rarely does any drill work.But maybe that's one of the reasons he's still playing the same speed as when I first met him at Toby Sweat's room Hollies.I think he was a B+ then and now he's A- that's not much of a change in all these years.I hope I don't stall like that,but I guess you can never tell till you get there.

I plan on playing the tough matches for my whole career,it might not sound like it in the last 2 posts,but after all was said here and done in my head,I was very happy to be playing Chino.Right now this is a real tough match for me too even be competitive in!But I'm trying very hard.I learned a couple of things today during my first session.One was that I need to adjust my game earlier in a set if I'm not feeling it.And today I didn't have it again.I think I have something going on in my back hand.I'm pretty sure that I'm not finishing my stoke with a straight wrist and that's not good for pocketing balls.I'm happy to report that I have been able to bring a lot of intensity too the table on each shot,maybe my concentration is a little off,but a lot of that has to do with confidence or maybe I should say lack off.

If there is one thing that almost every pool player says at one point or another it's "I think I've got it figured out".That's not what I'm saying here!You see for the last week I've been missing shots that I just shouldn't miss.I mean easy shots,at first I thought it was my concentration or focus,but I feel I have addressed that,it may not be perfect but it's not as bad as I've been missing.That leads me to believe that there is something wrong with my stroke,and I noticed it in my break.I'm not finishing straight,my wrist is slightly cocked in on my follow through!On the break shot any flaw in your stroke is magnified because your hitting so hard.And if this is the case it could be why I'm missing the easy shot!I actually hope it is I would love to have an answer.

My session with Chino was fun,I got crushed but was still having a good time.I tried too play him tough,as tough as I could.I just kept telling myself not to give any games away,make him work for it!I think I accomplished that,I played a lot of safes,maybe too many if there is such a thing when you can't get out.I had him kicking and mase'ing balls all the time in the first set.I really tried too not let him catch a stroke.I had a chance to win the first set but I blew it!It ended at 9-7.The second and third sets where just train wrecks for me.Chino had caught the stoke I tried so hard to impede.And I barley got too the table,when I did I was kicking,or had an extremely low percentage shot.I don't remember how many racks Chino ran but it was a lot.They ended 9-3 & 9-1.You don't have to say it,I know it's bad.

I played a second session with Ken "The Kernal",and as I'm sure you figured that didn't go my way either.Those 2 sets where fun too watch,he just breaks and runs out like tap water.But that's what you get when you play an OPEN class player with a big break.It is nice to watch the patterns that an open class player will play,you can learn a lot if you pay attention.Ken The "Kernal" will also tell you things too help your game,which most players will not do!And the way he does it is correct,he asks you why!Why did you do such and such,and after your response he makes a suggestion,and offers a new way of looking at the shot or pattern you chose.Most players wont do this for you,they will leave you too your own devices.

I'm going to play today,and I plan on doing some drill work but if a good game comes my way I'm sure I'll take it.But I know I need to do a day or two of drills real soon.
STRETCH

Patcience

I didn't play yesterday,I wanted to play but couldn't,I had other less important stuff too do.I also didn't wake up till 11:00am,and that's not like me,so I didn't finish my stuff till around 1:00pm,and I know Diamond Jim's is usually full by then.I definitely could have gone and gotten a game but probably would have done some sitting,and was not in the mood to sit and watch.I did a lot of that on Friday night,Big Al even said too me "man you got it bad huh?play all day & watch for hours".I like to watch good play,and I think it's just as important as practice or sparing,but it has too be good play.I can watch pool videos of the pros all day and all night!But that's not the same as clocking someone live.I'm more attentive live,the sound of pool balls clicking,that sweet pocket sound,the pong of a nice hitting cue,the chatter of players.It's all silence too me if that can make sense too you,maybe you're a player?I hear it all,but I don't listen too it when I'm concentrating,it helps me get into a zone.

Little did Big Al know,but I was clocking him,he was locked up with a guy named Eddie,I'd never seen the guy play before and have only seen him in the pool hall on league teams.Big Al was giving him the 8 ball,for how much I have no idea,but it looked pretty friendly so it couldn't have been much.I've been told Big Al dog's it for the cheese,this is the 1st time I've seen him in action that I'm aware.I've played with Big Al a couple of times and he never asked me too gamble,which is good because I'm so broke I can't afford to pay attention.The times I've played Big Al he played good,he get's out regularly and easily has the capability of stringing a few racks.I like his game,I hope to get too the point I can beat him even up soon.I've played him twice,and I gave away a set hill/hill(8-8)race too 9 so I know I can beat him!But he plays good,no doubt about that,he's one of the better players at Diamond Jim's!During the time I spent clocking his action game he made a lot of mistakes,and missed shots he would not have missed against me!Granted,this could be him laying down,because I think he won every set!I know I didn't see him lose a set!So if he was laying down,he was doing a pretty good job of it.
But I'm more inclined to believe that he does dog it!You see Big Al is a real gentleman,a genuine nice guy,and a school principle.All that makes me think that he's not going too try too rob anybody,he's going too play his game!Some guys can and will hustle I don't think he's a hustler.I just think he'll gamble.There is a big difference in a gambler and a hustler.A hustler will try and hide how good he is too keep you playing,and a gambler doesn't really hide his speed.With a gambler if you can not keep up he'll give you a spot.And I think that's what Big Al is a gambler of some sorts.I'll find out soon enough and report it here.

I plan on playing today,and hope to find a tough match again.Even though I got so down on myself the other day I know playing the tough matches is what's going too separate me from the rest of the players.This I truly believe!I've been taking some beatings,and my confidence has suffered because of it!But I have too learn from it and push on.I can't let it discourage me,that's the difference,the other day I got discouraged and wanted to quit.I can not let that happen again.Imagine what winning just 1 of these sets would do for my confidence!If I could win a race too 9 against any one of the tougher players Diamond Jim's has to offer,it should go through the roof!If I could do it on a regular basis then I know I'm really getting somewhere with my game.Too me it has to be at least a race to 9,because I believe anyone can win a race too 7 on any given day.The longer the race,the more likely the better player will come out on top.I'm not the better player in any match that I would like too play in today,but I still want to play them,and I think that says something about me!And if I can win 1 or a few of them it will say something about my game.I want too make a statement with my game in the near future,I really think I need to make a statement,I don't need to make a public statement I just need it for myself,I've been putting in a lot of hard work,and I want or need to see something for myself.I hope to see something today,but if I don't I need to remember to be patient and it will come as long as I keep working on it."Good thing come to those who wait"Abraham Lincoln. STRETCH

Reality

I really am a D class player!You see the difference in what class you are Pro,A,B,C,D,in that order is not only knowledge of the game,it's your consistency in the game.Consistency is what separates the classes!An A class player is very consistent,where a D class player really has no consistency too his game.A D player usually doesn't have enough consistency too his game to even get out regularly.He's generally not going too run more than 3-4 balls before getting out of line and leaving himself tough.This is where I feel I am,I'm running some balls and then either getting so far out of line,I leave myself super tough and are forced to play safe or I miss the easy shot! The knowledge is a whole other factor in your rating,I feel you can play at a high level with less knowledge than many players,the key too that is the consistency.Of course a player with a ton of knowledge of the game has an advantage but the player with the most consistency may get out more often.I have a lot of knowledge of the game,I'm just not capable of executing it on a consistent basis just yet!

I have too work on my concentration and focus,to increase my consistency! I feel that's the big thing missing from my game.I put a lot of pressure on myself,probably unnecessary pressure.I know it's unnecessary! I feel I should be playing at a higher level than I am right now,but I need to remember that I've only been playing again 2 months!That's where all the un-wanted pressure comes from!I have too say that again,"I've been playing 2 months"I need patience!You have to put so much time into this game,it's ridiculous.But it's very rewarding.Nothing is going too happen overnight for me,I just need to relax and it will come if I can keep going along the way I am. I've had a couple of bad days this week,and man did it really have a negative effect on me yesterday.I was playing and thinking about quitting at the same time!You don't have a chance in hell of playing good when you think like that.It amazes me how thought patterns like that can creep into you.I'm not quitting,I'm just getting started and that's what I need to remember!

It's only been since March,so I really only have 2 months in. My last 2 sessions did not go my way,but that should be OK with me because they both where against players I'm really not supposed to beat!They where tough matches for me from the start.I keep saying I want the tough matches,and I do.I just think I need to adjust the way I handle the loses.I should be remembering that I'm not supposed to win.I'm not really supposed to beat anyone right now!And I'm getting a chance at some of the sets,so that should be satisfying enough.But it's not,I want too win now.During league night I've done well so far,winning both my matches.It's the day sessions where I've had my problems!The day time games are all tough in here.Some are even tough A class games!The reality is I'm a D class player going too an A. STRETCH

Cue it Up

Last night was league night,and it went well for us.We won 4 of 5 matches,that's a good night.I almost had too play the opening match,and would have had to use Big Scotts cue,because my cue was having the tip replaced.Big Scotts cue is a beautiful Skip Weston cue.I hit a few shots with it during my warm up,and it hits nice,I loved the sound of Skip Weston cues! I've been around a few of his cues,and they all make the sweet ping that I like.There's just something about a cue that sings!That's when you know you put a stroke on the CB.He's got a nice players cue,that's what I call them.Big Scott also uses Predator shafts and that's why I hit his cue,because I also play with a Predator shaft,and once you get used too one it's very hard to play without one,they just play so different than a standard maple shaft.I think I would have played well with his Skip Weston,but I don't like playing with other peoples equipment for a number of reasons.The biggest reason is I'm always afraid that I'll fall in love with that cue,and have to have it!The 2nd reason is,pool players are a different breed,we hate it when someone plays our cue,and if someone plays it better than we can,we really hate it.It's like a girlfriend that cheated on you,we might still love her,but you'll always remember that affair!That affair goes 2 ways,if our cue gets played better by another player,it's not good,and if we play better with another cue rather then our own it will put questions into your own cue.So that's why I don't play any other cue but my own.

I play with a really beautiful Pete Omen,that too be honest with you,I took advantage of the original owner.It took about 10 minutes of play with this cue,and I knew I had too have it,I fell in love with it!

My Omen is a six point Ebony/Coco Bola cue.I have had more than one person ask me if it was a South West cue,which is the most sought after cue in the world,South West has a 10 year waiting list for a cue!And they produce about 150 cues a year,that's a lot of cues to make by hand.By comparison Omen Cues only produces 35 cues a year!I'm not sure how long his waiting list is,but I do know it's not 10 years.In my opinion South West cues play great and I've hit a few of them,but they don't play any better than an Omen.So if you want one of the best players cue,look into getting an Omen,you will not be disappointed!

I almost sold my cues,that's actually how I got back into the game,and ended up starting this blog.I had posted my cues for sale on http://forums.azbilliards.com/index.php and the only thing that happened was people trying too steal this cue! I think the best offer I got was about $1200!What a joke,the cue market is soft right now,and I understand that,but $1200 give me a break,I see people selling Schon,Joss,Viking,etc,etc,for nearly as much as $1200.These are production cues!Mine is a one of a kind hand built cue,that if I called Pete Omen and wanted to replace it would cost me $3500,yup I said $3500.00.So instead of selling something I loved so much,but just didn't use,I decided too use it 1 more time!That was a little more than a month ago.I have not stopped my love affair with this cue since then! I'm now dedicated too becoming the best player I can be!And I'm going to do it with my Omen,and my Xbreaker,the perfect players set up!

I just had Giant Jerry replace my Talisman Water Buffalo medium,which I ground down too nothing in 3 weeks because of the way I chalk,with a Talisman Water Buffalo hard.I only got too play with it for a small warm up,and league match.I think I like the tip but will have to get back too you tomorrow after I play it today.I didn't get a good read on it during league,it's a little loud in Diamond Jim's on league night,which by the by is every night,too concentrate on hearing my cue sing.It did feel great though,bit the the CB nice maybe not as nice as the medium,but dam close. I'm going to save the tip talk for tomorrow,if I can get to the pool hall today I'll be posting my Talisman Tip review tomorrow or the next day. Oh yeah that Omen cue I have,almost made it too the floor last night!! I had too be cat like too save from it's first dive too the floor.It all worked out in the end but I gotta tell you,man I would have been fuming had it made it too the floor,but I caught it thank God,that cue has never seen the floor it's pristine and I want too keep it that way.So until next time.STRETCH

Another Bad Day

Yes I had another bad day at the table!The only difference from yesterday too today is,I have no clue as too what went wrong.I wish I had an answer for you but I don't.All I can say is that I am just off my game today.I hope I can turn it around for league night.I usually play better under some pressure.But that doesn't explain what happened today,because I had some pressure and still didn't perform well. I hooked up with Jersey Ken for 2 sets,and lost both of them,7-5,7-1.I know,doesn't look good.I didn't play horrible,actually I felt great,and started the 1st set with a break and run out.The 1st set I played decent,Jersey Ken jumped to a lead on me,and I had too fight my way back too make it 7-5.I thought I was going too get the set but he snapped a 9ball and shot a combination for the win!

I have to give Jersey credit,he played the best I've ever seen him play.The 2nd set just didn't go my way,I just played bad,dogging shots.Once again I couldn't finish,I would end up leaving 3-4 ball outs on the table.So I did most of the heavy lifting with out a reward. I actually wish I could say "I just got out played"but that's not the only thing that happened.Something happened too my game,and I'm not too sure of what it was.I think I was good as far as intensity went,and I thought my concentration level was good.But something was just off,and that too me is disturbing.It could have been a lot of things,line up,stroke,foot placement,eye placement,and the list goes on.That's what's disturbing,could have been 100 different things!I'm starting too think like Tin Cup when he says "My stroke feels like a folded up lawn chair".I don't really feel like that in fact I think I'm stroking real nice.But that's a classic line in my book.

One other thing it could be,and I hate too blame equipment,but my tip is down pretty low.This is a new brand of tip too me,there called "Talisman Tips" and this is the 1st one I've tried.When I first put this tip on I loved it!But I'm thinking now it needs to be changed,I've ground this one down too nothing in a little less than a month!I know,that's not a long life span for a tip,but it has too do with my PSR(pre-shot routine)I grind my chalk in,and the leather tips are always softer than chalk,therefore they lose a little every time I chalk.I,m a tip abuser that's for sure,I even grind down G10 tips,which are a harder material than a pool ball.I should change the way I chalk but it's so ingrained in my PSR that it makes it tough too change.I don't think I'm going too change I don't really want too,I have 2 more tips in my bag,1 medium,and 1 hard tip,pretty sure I'm just going too grind them down too nothing also.Maybe the hard one will last a little longer,but I'm not sure I'll like the hit,it may be too hard.

I played my whole career with Hard Triangle tips,which aren't layered like the Talisman tips.The Talisman medium is supposed too be slightly softer than a hard Triangle,which it was but now it's an extremely hard hit.I noticed the change in the last two times I played,my cue just didn't have that nice sound,it was more of a harsh sound.I'm going to have Giant Jerry replace the tip with the Talisman hard and see if I like that better.My only concern is that it may be too hard.But if it's like the medium that I have on now,which really grabbed the CB(cue ball)I think I'll love it,as long as it makes my cue sing again. For a layered tip I like the Talisman tips,there not as expensive as a Kamui which is the big thing right now at $35 each,yeah LOL,your not going too catch me paying that for a tip I'll probably grind down too nothing in 2 weeks.I got my Talisman tips 4 of them for $37 with a FREE monogrammed hand towel and Free shipping.That's a great deal for any layered tip.After I try this hard Talisman I'll give you guys a complete review of Talisman Tips including a B/J(break/jump)tip.

Today is league night,and that's always fun for me.I get too see my teammates play and hang out with them.I like our team,Big Scott thinks we should be able to go too regional playoff's,and have a good shot at Vegas!I'm just hoping that none of these tournaments coincide with my lofty goal which I will share with you guys in the future.I know the title of the blog is From D player too A player,but on my way there I have another opportunity that I'm probably going too take.I just need some more time at the tables too figure it out,and then I'll share it with you. I'm not going too get to Diamond Jim's till this evening,I have too take care of a few things.But as usual I wish I could play the afternoon session.In the afternoon you can play for 6 hours for $8 on a day pass!That's a deal that can't be beat.The equipment is top notch,all except 1 table are Brunswick Gold Crown III's,and the other table is my favorite table,a Diamond Pro/Am.I'm not sure if the Diamond has Simmonis 860 cloth,I think it's Champion cloth,but when they re-cloth it I'm going too try my hardest too get Simmonis 860 on that table!Diamond's really need Simmonis they just play so much nicer with it,your banks don't come up short and the rails play on system,meaning when you come out of diamond 5,and hit cross table diamond 3,your third rail diamond for the CB(cue ball)should be diamond 2.But on this Diamond table it comes all the way up too diamond 3,so it plays long,and that's because of the cloth.Some of the guys say they don't like the way the CB comes off the rails,and that's why they don't like to play on it,especially for action!It's really the cloth that they don't like,if this table had Simmonis 860 there really would be no other table that I would rather gamble on!Even without the 860 cloth I would rather play my games on the Diamond.They just play harder than any Brunswick that's not triple shimmed plain and simple.I'm pretty sure all the other tables are Simmonis 860 so I don't see why they wont be using it for the Diamond when they re-cloth it,which needs to be done.

This room is top notch plain and simple.Whenever you walk through the door you get a big welcome from them,not like some rooms where they make you feel like their doing you a favor by staying open,and then giving you some crappy trap table clothed with the wool from a Yeti.It's not like that here,when I came back too this game they treated me like I was a 10 year veteran of the place.Take my word for it,you will NOT get that treatment from many rooms across the globe.I've been in a lot of rooms,all over the world and never got treated so good!Diamond Jim's is my home room,and that's where I play if your looking for a game.Right now I'm a D class player,going too an A class player and I'm going too do it here.So if you like my blog so far it will only get better!Like my game my writing can't get anything but better,and if you enjoy it please pass it on too your friends.I'm going too try and give you a good look at what it takes and what happens on the way too being an A class player.It's a tough journey and it's filled with action,and characters that are interesting too say the least.There is no other world like the pool & billiard world,this game get's in your blood,and you have too get a little dirty too play it well.A seedy underworld filled with,action,glamor,money,sex,drugs,alcohol and infamy!This is the GAME! STRETCH

Scores

Scores for the day race too nine; 9-5,9-2,9-7,9-7.I won them all! It sounds better than it really was though.I played OK by my standards,not real good,not real bad either.I won and I should be satisfied for the day but I'm not!I wasn't able too achieve the intensity I was looking for,and I know why.I got there early,and started my warm up with a TON of intensity,and kept it up for about an hour.But I was looking for a game!By the time I got too Diamond Jim's I was so amped and itching to play I needed a game right then and there.But I did not get a game for almost 2 hours!What I think happened was putting that much intensity into a warm up might not be a good idea if you plan on playing immediately after with no real break.By the time I did get a game,I think I was a little burnt out.I know that I'm going to have to give this intensity thing time to build,it doesn't just show up,it's a learned thing.I had to wait for a game today,everybody already had games.

Jersey Ken showed up late and I asked him to play but he declined.Why he said no I'm not real sure but I think he took a few days off from the game,and didn't want any action.Not a big deal.I would have been firing empty anyhow,so it was probably for the best.Big Scott was on his way but he was real late,so I had my game coming. Big Scott finally got there a little after 2:00,witch meant I had already put in 2 hours of an intense work out that is called "Piling Rocks".I like this workout because of it's simplicity,it's a concentration,and PSR(pre-shot routine)workout,very simple,but if done correctly it produces results.I got this workout from "The Monk" one of the premier pool instructors in the world.It's so simple and very effective,I do it every day I play!All you do is take all 15 balls spread them out on the table,and take any shot that you want,sounds simple huh?Well this game is simple,but it's never that easy!During this time at the table you need too;clear your mind of all things except pocketing that ball,until it becomes automatic and you DON"T Remember doing it.Not easy,simple but not easy!Your also supposed too be working on your PSR too automate it,once again too the point of not remembering,your also supposed to be feeling and hearing the game,feeling the stroke and resonator through the cue,and hearing that awesome sound your cue makes when your really putting a stroke on the ball,when your cue doesn't do this your not stroking the ball!So nothing about this game is ever easy it's only simple.That's a lot of stuff too think about,and your not supposed too,it's supposed to be automatic,too the point of not remembering,that's the trick.Try it out and you'll see what a task it really is.The ultimate goal of this exercise is DEAD STROKE.When your truly in dead stroke you don't remember a thing.

So Big Scott was my game for the day,and I always get a tough match from him,we play pretty close too even.I give Big Scott a slight edge when he's in stroke.But I think he was still asleep for the first 2 sets.He really did not come too life till the 3rd set.The last 2 sets where real nail bitters,could have gone either way at any moment.We placed a little action on the last set,and I feel both of us really got down on shots.That's why I say it sounded better than it really was for a session. I'm going back again today and I'm looking too play Jersey Ken,that's the game I want!It's very competitive and I think I'm supposed to win,although I lost the last time we played.So wish me luck,please.STRETCH

Drilled

Man did I get drilled!7-1,7-1,7-3,7-3,7-1...ouch that hurts too write.I got drilled by Chino,plain and simple.I know I said,I would not care,but I do!Nobody likes to get drilled,but I now realize how much it bothers me.I'm shaking I'm so mad at myself.I have to give credit too Chino,he played really well.Chino always plays good,but today he had another gear,he hit me with a 3 pack and just got out all the time,rarely making a mistake.It was a pleasure to watch but painful to handle.Chino is an A+ player and if he played all the time he would be an OPEN class player.That's a tough game for me,that I'm not supposed to win,and I need to remember that!

As far as my play went,I thought I was going to play good,I started the set with a great side too side table length draw shot that went center of the hole.I followed that up with the run out,but Chino was too much to handle.The good news from me is; that I did play with intensity and was able to turn it on in my PSR(pre shot routine).That's good news,now I just need to implement it in my PSR every time till it becomes natural.As usual that's easier said than done,but saying it does help to achieve it.I'm happy I was able to realize I need it,and then do something about it.Sometimes that's the biggest battle,realizing!

I did make some great shots,Chino doesn't leave you easy shots,you really have to earn a chance at a run out.I just couldn't finish.And that's what was frustrating,not being able to close out racks.Overall I really did not play horrible,just not good. I have to remember I wanted to find a tough game and challenge my intensity.Well I did that,I found the tough game,and I delivered the intensity.I did not get the results I would like but you can't have everything.So overall I think I should be happy with myself,I should at the very least be satisfied,I had a goal in mind for the session,and I feel I did a good job of achieving it.

Having that intensity,stalking every shot,never taking your eye off of it,knowing what English(spin),speed,stroke to use,and so on,just to make 1 ball,takes a lot out of you!This plays into when I had talked about "How long of a session is good for my game".Well we figured it out.As long as I can deliver that kind of intensity consistently,that's how long of a session is good for my game.That's my new rule,if I can't deliver it I need to stop playing.I'm happy I figured this out,I think it's going to be great for my game in the long run.I don't think it's the kind of thing that will show instant results,but it could.So for the next few sessions that's going to be my goal;INTENSITY!Win or lose I just want too be as intense as possible.

I'm going back too the table today,I'll be there when the doors open.And I'm going to deliver that intensity!Some people would tell you I'm a pretty intense guy by nature,I'd would say I'm just very passionate.Either way I know I can deliver. I'm not sure what my plan for today's session will be,I have too ask myself"what do I want from today's session" well for starters; 1: I want the intensity. 2: I want too feel like I can make any shot at the table. 3: I want too make balls,a lot of balls. That doesn't sound like a lot but it is!I feel like I should only have one goal per session to focus on,and the rest should follow the success or failure of said goal.That's it!Or at least I think that's it,but I'm going to give it a try today,my one goal for today is the intensity,and I bet you the other two will follow.

Now today at Diamond Jim's,we have a few players too chose from usually.I'm pretty sure Jersey Ken,Mike the Fish,Big Al,Giant Jerry,Big Scott,Joey"King"Kong and a few others will be there.Now some of those are action games,and some are practice games.I'm not sure if I should be looking for action or not.I would be firing on an empty barrel,because I'm broke,so action isn't ideal.But a game with Jersey Ken will be very hard to turn down,I think I would jump on that.None of these games are easy for me they all play well!But a few are really tough games,and not necessarily action games,that's one of the best thing about this room.You can always find a tough game even when your broke.Now you may not get their best game,but it will be tough,even for an A class player.I'm no A class player just yet,but I'm on my way.

I still feel I'm playing at a C maybe C+ level,but some would say I'm at a B level.I don't feel or see it that way,but Ken the Kernal says I'm a B player so does Joey "King" Kong,and both of these guys are OPEN players.So I gotta take their word for what it is.I can promise you one thing today,and that's;INTENSITY.I woke up with it this morning and I'll have it all day.That's the good thing about getting drilled,you can't wait to do it too someone else!I'm not yet capable of drilling any game I could find today,but I can try!So the name of the game today is INTENSITY let's deliver it!STRETCH

Intensity

I'm gonna get too the table today,and I can't wait.I'M dying to play!It feels like I have not played in weak,but it's only been 3 days.Man time off sucks!Time off will re-ignite lost passion,but I don't need that,I have plenty of passion for the game.Time off is also a good thing when you are learning new things,it gives you time too think about it.But for me I'm not really learning anything new just yet.I'm still trying to knock rust off of my game and reach a comfortable zone in my game.I still don't feel absolutely comfortable at the table,and that's only going to change with time!I also have not stopped guessing where the pocket really is,meaning where to hit the ball on a lot of shots.This is all rust,rust on a game I used too play pretty well.I used too see about 5-6 different tiny little spots on the OB(object ball)all different spots in the pocket I could place the ball to gain position on the next shot.I've been trying real hard to get that back,but I'm beginning to think it may never come back like that again for me.I've had a few sessions where I couldn't miss,I just knew where the pocket was and it felt great.So that's a lot of progress from when I was just getting down on shots with NO clue where too aim!Seriously,I had absolutely NO idea of what to look at,I would just say too myself;Make sure you look good shooting the shot.That's something I learned from The Monk,I'll tell you more about him at a later date.So I'm not totally satisfied with my progress,but there has been progress none the less.I guess we all want what we want when we want it,and if you approach this game with that attitude,you'll go nowhere!This game is way to hard,to get instant results! I'm going to Diamond Jim's today,and I'm looking for the toughest game I can find,I don't care who it is,or if I get drilled.I just want too have too step up,I'm not sure if I can or if it's even good for my game!But I'm looking to create a ton of intensity in my PSR(pre shot routine)so that's my goal for today,win or lose!STRETCH

Another day off that I don't want

Hi everyone,I'm taking today off from the game also.Not that I want to,but I have to!I've got stuff to do,you know.You see I have my priority's in line!Pool first and foremost,all else,I could care less about.That's the honest truth.I really only want too play.I could play 14hours a day,and that's with good concentration.You see anybody can go too the pool hall and play for hours and hours,but if it's not good play then it actually hurts your game.I could be wrong on how long a quality session is for me,but I do know it's longer than most peoples attention can carry them.I'm pretty sure an 8 hour session would be better for me,but once I get going I can't stop.Of course my best sessions are when I'm in action.I don't really like to say that,because I want to be able to turn on and off my best game at will.I think that's an important skill,if you can only play your best when you gamble,then you are going to have a hard time playing in tournaments!You need to be capable of turning it on early in a tournament when there really isn't much at stake.

This is where I feel that league play will help me,you see there is nothing at stake in league play for most of your matches.You really have to be able to play your best early,if you don't your gonna lose your match or matches and never get a shot at regional qualifiers or Vegas. So far in the league I've played well,I have won both my matches,it's only weak 2,but I'm off too a good start.My first match was against a formidable opponent who can run out,and in the end he needed 2 balls too my 7 balls,he made a mistake and I got him,I ran out for the win. I know when I'm really concentrating because my PSR(pre shot routine)changes,this is something I need to focus on in my game.I think if I just emulate the same intensity in my PSR whether I have it or not,it will click in my brain and trigger that level of focus,concentration,and intensity.I'm going too focus on this in my next session,and see what kind of results I have.

I wish I could play today!It's a beautiful day here,and there is no better way to spend a beautiful day than in the pool hall!Saturday is a great day to play at Diamond Jim's!All the players show up too play on day passes.There is plenty of action,and plenty of non action games.There isn't much by the way of easy games though,but I'm rarely looking for an easy game.Easy games have a place,but right now that's not what I need.I need tough games,a tough game is going to push you too step up,and that's what I need.I'm pretty lucky in the aspect of finding a game,Diamond Jim's has more than it's fair share of solid B class too Open class players that will play you hard for next to nothing,and some for even just bragging rights.This works out perfect for me because I'm just about BROKE.Not that your going to get their best game for nothing,but you will get a tough game from a solid B too A class player!And that's awesome,I love it.

I'm a relative "Fresh Fish" at Diamond Jim's although everybody knows me.See my home room closed down 5 years ago,and when it closed I walked from this game also.So for five years my cues sat in the corner of the room collecting dust,I didn't even take them out of the case too look at them.It's a miracle I still have them,after all I've been through in the last 3 years.But that's another story I might share with you at a latter date,just like what my true goal with this game is,it will all come out sooner or later!

Diamond Jim's has taken me in and treated me the same as you would treat a ten year customer.And for that I'm very grateful,without them there would be no pool for me. I almost sold my cues and that's what ultimately got me back into this game.I tried to post my cues on forums.azbilliards but did not receive a decent enough offer too make it worth my while.The next thing I knew I was in the pool hall playing.I haven't looked back since.I found a new home in Diamond Jim's and I feel more comfortable there than I do at my real home.Like I said in an earlier post,things are a little tense in my current living situation and something is going to change in the near future.Unfortunately that may force me to walk away from this game again,at least for a little while.But for now it's game on!Tomorrow I'll be at Diamond Jim's when the doors open!I'll be looking for action,and I know I'll find it! It wont be easy action that's for sure,but it will be fun to say the least.So wish me luck and I'll talk too you guys later!STRETCH

Shark Attack Continued

So I had to play a five and I'm a five,this means we play even,we both have to make the same amount of balls.I have not one clue about this player,can he play?So I don't want him to get the early lead and put any un-wanted pressure on myself,I want to win the lag for the first break.I lose!He breaks first,great,I'm thinking now what? Does he run out on me and string a rack or two,because that would be bad for me.Remember I'm not playing to good today!But these are the thoughts at the start of any match.He doesn't run out I'm not even sure if he made a ball!All I know is it's my shot and I'm getting out,witch I think I did.I at least know I broke the second rack and maybe the third.I know I jumped too a lead in the match and never looked back.I had about a ten ball lead most of the match.I dogged a few shots on purpose to get my innings up,but really didn't want to go down that path too far,because I knew I wasn't playing with a ton of confidence.
When you don't feel like you can make any shot at hand you really should not be laying down.It will get you in trouble faster than you can get out!We are only racing too,I think about 40 balls each for the win.And as a team I know I have to get the win for us to have a good shot at the win for the night.If I lose the team has to win two in a row,and that's never easy for any team I don't care how good they play,it's just tough!Race too three wins is the match for the night.Big Scott lost his,and Cindy won her's.My match turns out to be the pace setter,if we win the third we've got them on they're heals!Now they need to win two in a row!That's how important the third match becomes when you split the first two.

I really don't mind that pressure,I definitely can play better for the cash then if there is nothing on the line.It's always been that way for me,I can find another gear!And right now I feel like I have about 2-3 more gears.I can make just about any shot on the table,and I have not even tried to institute my safe game yet!I have a good safe game and in this game that counts for a lot. Back too the game,this guy looks to be a 3-4 ball runner,for him to run out on me he really needs the easiest of layouts to be on the table.He has no CB control,alright maybe a little.He can make some shots,he made one tough cut shot that impressed Big Scott and I.But that was about it from him.I tried pretty hard to keep the match close,but when I did leave him the table he couldn't capitalize on the situation.The score I remember was him needing 17 balls,me needing 7 balls and I'm breaking,my break is working pretty good,I've been practicing it on the Diamond witch is very hard table to break well on!I think I hop the rock off the table,or come up dry on the break,either way I let him back to the table.I'm hoping he does well this time and pockets some balls,I really need him to get out.In a perfect world he gets out,breaks,and runs his 3-4 balls that would make us dead even again!It doesn't happen,he leaves me a 4 ball out!No cooperation whatsoever for me!I make the run out,and now I need 3 balls.I figure I'll break soft and let him back too the table one more time,but that's it.I break at about 75% power,and make 4 balls.Match over!


That's how it goes in this game,rarely does it all go as planned,there's always something that doesn't work as planned! I took Thursday off,went to the Yankees vs Rays game,had a good time!That was my first time in the new stadium,witch isn't new anymore,but it's nice.It definitely is not cheap,$35 to park the car,$12 for a beer,$6 for a hot dog,plus gas,tolls,and your ticket.You're pretty lucky to get out of that stadium for $125 per person.I'm on the fence as to playing today,don't get me wrong I always want to play,but the logistics of it are kinda tough today.I do not have my cues with me,and would have to back track in my travels to pull it off.Although Friday is a good day at Diamond's.Jersey Ken,Chino,Mike the Fish,Jose',Neil the Knit are all going to be there.Action plenty of action!There really isn't a game with anyone of them that I'm an easy favorite.The Jersey Ken game is my best game,then Jose'.All of the other match ups I'm a clear underdog,plain and simple.Even the Jose' game,I've beat him before and we play even,but most people down there would bet with him.That's fine with me though,I like being the underdog!Now I want to play today just this little bit of talk is all it takes.I gotta go I'm going too see if I can get there by noon,otherwise everyone will be matched up.STRETCH

Shark Attack

Last night was League night,and it was a good one!Big Scott started us off with a nail biter of a set! It came down too the last few balls,each player not willing to concede.This match had all the old school flavor.Big Scott's opponent was a shark with skills! That makes for a tough match even against someone who can't make a ball.That was not the case with this SHARK,he could also play a little.I couldn't figure it out last night,but I knew I had seen this guy somewhere before outside of the game,when I woke up this morning I figured it out.He was my mailman when I was a kid!Funny how small this world really is.So from now on he's know as "The Mailman".
Big Scott's a much better player,but The Mailman had the moves,and Big Scott fell right into that Shark tank for the first two racks.The Mailman has got moves.He shadowed Scott relentlessly,stood in his shot line,moved at the precise time,and worst of all got into Scott's head!But the best move The Mailman had I have never seen before and I have seen most of them.I think it was the second rack,Big Scott is breaking,and as The Mailman racks the balls he takes his thumb,shoves it into his mouth,and puts a nice big wet one on the foot spot! WOW that's a new one for me,and it's a great one!What a shark move that is.If you know anything about pool then you know what a wet spot on an OB(object ball)or CB(cue ball)can do.
You see,a liquid cannot be compressed and when you introduce a liquid too a pool ball lots of funny things happen,from balls skidding too shots missing the pocket by a full diamond or more,all from that one little wet spot.You gotta give it up too The Mailman for that one!Now Big Scott should have complained,but I might have shrugged it off also and just broke,and that's a mistake.If I remember correctly Big Scott jumped the CB off the table on that break,coincidence?Not likely,Big Scott doesn't hop the CB off the table all that much.For me I know it would have Sharked me,that's all I'd be thinking about when trying to shoot a shot,what about the wet spot,did it land where I need to contact the OB,is the OB going to skid etc,etc.One of the best things about this Shark is,it was so blatant,he didn't try to hide it in the least and he still got the player too fall into it.That's a SHARK ATTACK!I would love too hear from some of you guys about some Shark Attacks you've pulled or witnessed so please respond!

It comes down too Big Scott and The Mailman both needing one ball for the match,and they're having a safety battle.Big Scott loses the safety battle and The Mailman goes on to win the match by one ball!Now this is what a good Shark Attack game can do for you.Big Scott should have drilled The Mailman,but for the first two or maybe three racks he was winning,not by balls made but by being inside Big Scott's head,and that's all it takes sometimes.

Next up was Cindy,a pretty uneventful match that she played very well in!The match started slow with only one ball being made on the break by her opponent in five innings.Her opponent jumped out too an early lead and then stalled.It was then that Cindy took control of the game and match.She started making balls and never looked back.She got the lead,was pocketing balls nicely,and I think she just played her game.I'm not sure if that was just her game or she played overhead because that's the first time I got to see her play.If that was just her average game then we got a four playing at a three skill level and that's always a good thing.

I played the third match,now I had been playing all day on the tight pocket Diamond table,and was not playing as well as I can.I guess taking some time off did not have the affect I was hoping for.You see I got drilled on the Diamond by Giant Jerry,one of the owners of Diamond Jim's.Giant Jerry plays good,he pulls position and really does not miss all that much.He drilled me flat out for two sets!Needless to say but I was not very happy about it. My match was against another five,I like to think I'm a six playing at a five skill level.You see I've been sand bagging in this league for years basically since it's inception.My player # in the APA League is #151,that makes me a dinosaur in the league.I have not played in the league since 2007,and I find myself on teams where I constantly need to maintain a five skill level,so I've been laying down since the beginning!My first two seasons in the APA I let it all hang out,with great results.In the county I live in I was #2 ranked for my first season and #1 ranked my second season.But since then I've always had to lay down.I don't mind laying down as long as I can play some of the cash tournaments sponsored by the APA.And most of those have a skill level maximum of a combined 11,so you can only play a 5/6 as your best team.So that's why I'm in the APA once again.Hopefully to rob a few tournaments.